International Journal of Medical Science and Dental Research

Current Issue Volume 9 Issue 2 (March-April 2026)

    • Comparative Evaluation of Gingival Depigmentation Using Diode Laser With and Without Topical Vitamin C Application: A 6-Month Follow-Up Clinical Study
      Abstract: Aim and Objective: The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate gingival depigmentation performed using a diode laser with and without topical vitamin C application, and to assess postoperative pain, wound healing, and repigmentation over a period of six months.
      Materials and Methods Twenty systemically and periodontally healthy patients aged between 24 and 38 years presenting with physiologic gingival hyperpigmentation were enrolled in this randomized clinical study. The participants were randomly allocated into two groups of ten each: • Group I – Gingival depigmentation using diode laser without vitamin C application • Group II – Gingival depigmentation using diode laser followed by topical vitamin C application Depigmentation was carried out using an 810 nm diode laser. Postoperative pain and discomfort were evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at 2 hours, 24 hours, and 1 week postoperatively. Wound healing was assessed clinically, and re-pigmentation was evaluated at 1 month and 6 months postoperatively.
      Results Both groups demonstrated satisfactory gingival depigmentation with minimal postoperative discomfort. Group II showed improved wound healing and reduced re-pigmentation at the end of six months compared to Group I.
      Conclusion Diode laser is an effective modality for gingival depigmentation. The adjunctive use of topical vitamin C appears to enhance wound healing and delay re-pigmentation.
      Clinical Significance Laser-assisted gingival depigmentation is a minimally invasive, patient-friendly procedure. The addition of vitamin C may provide additional benefits by improving healing outcomes and reducing recurrence of pigmentation.


      Keywords: Gingival depigmentation, diode laser, vitamin C, melanin, aesthetics’.



        • Phlorotannin-Mediated Upregulation of LL-37 as an Antimicrobial Peptide Against Porphyromonas gingivalis in Periodontitis
          Abstract:Periodontitis affects 74.1% of Indonesians, with Porphyromonas gingivalis as a key pathogen. Antibiotics remain the standard therapy but are limited by resistance and adverse effects, including gastrointestinal disturbances, allergic reactions, and taste alteration, highlighting the need for safer alternatives. Indonesia is rich in edible brown algae such as Ecklonia cava, Sargassum sp., Rugulopteryx okamurae, and Ascophyllum nodosum, which contain phlorotannins with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Emerging evidence indicates that phlorotannins may enhance LL-37, an endogenous antimicrobial peptide effective against P. gingivalis. This review explores the potential of phlorotannins to enhance the antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activity of LL-37 in periodontitis. A literature review was conducted focusing on (1) phlorotannin extraction and bioactivity, (2) its effects on LL-37, and (3) the role of LL-37 in periodontitis, selecting studies published within the last ten years. Brown algae–derived phlorotannins exhibit strong antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects, particularly when extracted using microwave-assisted extraction at 180°C for 10 minutes with ethanol (1:20 w/v). Phlorotannins enhance LL-37 α-helical stability, increase antibacterial efficacy, reduce cytotoxicity, inhibit P. gingivalis biofilm formation, promote autophagy-mediated bacterial clearance, and support periodontal tissue regeneration. Phlorotannin-mediated enhancement of LL-37 represents a promising natural adjunctive strategy for periodontitis management, warranting further investigation.


          Keywords: antimicrobial, LL-37, periodontitis, phlorotannin, Porphyromonas gingivalis